đ§ Take a Ticonderoga Day Trip: Find Fun Things to Do
Lake George --> Ticonderoga: 1 Hour
Just an hour north of Lake George, Ticonderoga is a rewarding Adirondack destination packed with history, outdoor beauty, unique shopping, and hyper local dining. Whether you're a family with kids or you're vacationing with a significant other or friends, a Ticonderoga day trip offers plenty of fun things to do.
Top Attractions in Ticonderoga
Fort Ticonderoga
This renowned historic site is the centerpiece of any visit to Ticonderoga. More than just a fort, Fort Ticonderoga offers a gorgeous 2,000-acre property to discover, with a variety of exhibits and engaging experiences that bring 18th-century history to life.
You can explore:
- King's Garden: A tranquil spot that blends horticulture with heritage.
- Carillon Boat Cruises: Enjoy a narrated boat ride on Lake Champlain with scenic views and historical insight (small fee in addition to admission).
- Live Reenactments & Events: Seasonal events and living history demonstrations immerse visitors in Revolutionary War history.
- Mount Defiance Access: Admission includes a drive to the top of nearby Mount Defiance, offering panoramic views of the fort and lake.
- Picnic-Friendly: Guests are welcome to bring their own food, or grab lunch at the on-site cafe.
- Seasonal Corn Maze: Fun for families visiting from August to October.
They also host several annual events, including for Memorial Day, 4th of July, and there's a Heritage, Harvest & Horse Festival in the fall.
We enjoyed how expansive the grounds are. You can enjoy the exhibits and not feel crowded.
Ticonderoga Heritage Museum & Visitor Center
Located at the edge of Bicentennial Park, this free museum explores Ticonderoga's industrial past, especially its connection to paper and pencil production. Donât miss the giant pencils out front - a fun photo op!
Free admission. Donations accepted. The best location for information on Ticonderoga's industrial history along the La Chute River.
Hancock House
Open June through December, this four-story Georgian Revival home serves as a museum and research library. Exhibits range from colonial artifacts to geological resources. Around the holidays, visitors can enjoy the charming Festival of Trees.
Such a cool building with really interesting exhibits!
Star Trek Original Series Set Tour
This one-of-a-kind attraction features a faithful recreation of the Desilu Stage 9 studio where the original Star Trek series was filmed. Approved by Star Trek cast and crew, it's a must for any fan. Check their schedule for the annual Trekkonderoga Weekend, a summer highlight.
If you are a Star Trek fan, then a visit here is a must. The team here has faithfully recreated all the key sets from the USS Enterprise. It is simply amazing.
Outdoor Activities in Ticonderoga
Bicentennial Park
This central green space is great for stretching your legs. Kids will love the playground, and everyone can appreciate the covered bridge, waterfalls, and walking paths. Special events are hosted here, like Best 4th in the North and the annual Ticonderoga Area Car Show in August.
Really nice must-see stop. You can walk very close to the falls.
La Chute River Walk
Starting from Bicentennial Park, this 1.7-mile flat loop trail is an easy route that loops past old pulp mill grindstones, small waterfalls, and scenic dams. Itâs a peaceful way to enjoy the townâs natural beauty.
The bluest water I've seen in New York. Very clean, quiet, and peaceful. #disabledhiker easy.
Ticonderoga Golf Course
Come to the Ticonderoga Golf Course in the fall for stunning foliage! But enjoy a great game at any time during the season. They have a restaurant on site, and a mini golf course next door for families, Five Nations Golf. For 2025, check out their 100-year celebration in August!
Great clubhouse with really good food. Well manicured course and the greens were perfect. Unbelieve views everywhere you look.
Black Point Beach
Located on Lake Georgeâs northern end, this small, well-maintained beach features picnic tables, grills, a playground, and restrooms. Reviewers often call it the cleanest and most relaxing beach in the area.
Black Point Beach in Ticonderoga is the best beach on Lake George...it is always clean and a very relaxing place to go.
Where to Shop in Ticonderoga
Lonergan's Antiques
A favorite for treasure hunters, this large antique shop is packed with items from various centuries. Visitors rave about the wide selection and the joy of exploring its many rooms.
Take it all in and enjoy. Truly a hidden gem.
Sugar & Spice Country Shoppe
This gift shop blends vintage charm with modern appeal. You'll find home goods, antiques, candles, and visitors love the owner and staff.
What I like about this shop is it's a combo of old and new, so a little something can be found for anyone. Prices are very reasonable.
Fox & Fern Adirondack Mercantile
This curated boutique offers a wide selection of Adirondack- and New England-inspired goods, including jewelry, baby gifts, home decor, clothing, and even dog toys. It's tough for shoppers to leave empty handed!
Beautiful store. So many gift ideas!
Where to Eat in Ticonderoga
Wind Chill Factory
This roadside stand is the place to go for soft-serve ice cream, frozen yogurt, and classic comfort foods like burgers, pizza, and fries.
The best soft serve I've ever had. I had a maple and vanilla twist.
Paper & Pencil
A standout on the local dining scene. Guests praise the warm ambiance, friendly service, and menu items like crab cakes, mac and cheese, and filet mignon. The wine selection and bread pudding also earn rave reviews.
If you plan to get food in Ticonderoga this is the place to go.
Fort View Inn
As the name suggests, this rustic eatery offers great views of Fort Ticonderoga and Lake Champlain. Their chicken wings are a local legend.
Chicken wings should be trademarked.
Eddie's Restaurant
For Italian comfort food in a family-friendly atmosphere, Eddieâs delivers. Known for their homemade pasta and other hearty entrees like veal parm and prime rib, you might want to make a reservation for this one.
The garlic bread is out of this world.
Burleigh's Luncheonette
A retro 1950s diner thatâs perfect for breakfast or a quick, affordable lunch. Try the milkshakes, and enjoy vegetarian options and friendly service.
True diner experience...not to miss their milkshakes. Prices are very affordable.
Final Tips for Your Ticonderoga Day Trip
âď¸ Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall offers the most attractions and ideal weather.
â° Timing: Start early to make the most of your day. Maybe plan an attraction in late morning, followed by lunch and a scenic walk, then a Wind Chill Factory stop before you head back!
đď¸ Check Ahead: Check hours for seasonal sites like Hancock House or special events like Trekkonderoga, and Fort Ticonderoga you can get tickets for ahead of time.
𧺠Pack a Picnic: Especially if you plan to enjoy Fort Ticonderoga's grounds, Mount Defiance, or Bicentennial Park - make it a picnic day!
A day trip to Ticonderoga from Lake George is full of discoveries, from a fort and waterways to a beach and boutique stores. Whether you're walking in the footsteps of history or digging through antiques, youâll find plenty of reasons to return.
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